Teri D.

Coach all levels of speakers as well as voice over artists. Enunciation, breath control, getting more tone and resonance, projection, volume, and control.

About Teri

I teach students of all ages in a relaxed, encouraging, and fun way- but with the structure many beginners need to reach their goals and with the background of a professional singer! Students will see themselves making progress and reaching set goals! This encourages them to continue on their musical journey - becoming the very best they can be! We will also learn fun popular songs and look for opportunities to sing them. We will also learn many styles of pop singing as well -- from pop to rock to R&B to country & more! From beginners and just-for-fun singers to singer/songwriters to pros, e

ach student will be able to learn the skills they need to sing from their heart and find their own true voice.

Teri has taught voice for over 15 years to all ages and all levels, led and trained various bands and groups for over 17 years. She is a club hit recording artist and premier LA vocal coach. Her vocals have graced full length CD's, cuts on various records, performances on TV and radio, and gained her a nomination for Best Female Vocalist, All Access Music Awards. She is the author of Vocal Essentials for the Pop Singer: Take Your Singing from Good to Great, from Hal Leonard Publishing. Teri has a Master's Degree in Education and a Bachelors Degree in Speech Pathology. She studied music at Blue Bear School of Music in San Francisco including music theory, vocal technique and vocal performance, guitar and stage performance. She had a dance club hit in the 90's which garnered success on mix shows and dance charts across the country.

She specializes in getting the best out of her students -- giving them a solid vocal technique to let their natural ability shine. Her students will attest to her positive, relaxed and encouraging teaching style.

In addition to learning the basics, Teri can help students get their voice in shape for events, school projects/plays, auditions (American Idol etc...), a solo or band project, and more!

Teri offers flexibility with scheduling to accommodate students various needs including day/eves and weekends. Studio is in a convenient Westside LA location.

*** Lesson Details ***Students can expect a fun lesson with vocal warm-up exercises, and lots of singing, in a supportive environment. Teri works out of her home studio, so students can work with microphones and instruments.

ChildrenVoice lessons build confidence and enthusiasm, and help prepare children for performing in front of others. Singing at a young age develops vocal abilities, but more importantly develops a child's aural abilities (recognizing melodies, harmonies, etc.) as well as the ability to focus, take direction and be creative.

Performing / Recording / Vocal HealthRecording. performing and touring presents unique challenges to singers. By concentrating on breathing, vocal production and tension reduction, warm-up exercises, and range building exercises, these lessons help increase stamina, build vocal tone, and reduce the effects of vocal fatigue for those who sing long hours at a time.

Church / Worship LeadingSinging on praise/worship teams is an art form all of it's own. Lessons centered around this kind of singing focus on the areas of blending, tone, hearing harmonies, and keeping your part in a group. For the soloist / worship leader, lessons help in the areas of projection, tone, range, runs, and breathing.

Teri D.

Teri D.

Toni K.

I have a side specialty in accent reduction for both actors and singers who need to minimize their accents quickly.

About Toni

Just a couple of seasons ago one of my amazing students, Juliana Chahayed made top 40 on American Idol! 2 of my students recently made it through two rounds of The Voice. 12 of my students sang on the Grammy Award nominated "Hurry Up, We're Dreaming" by M83. My students have also gotten into top music programs at Berklee College of Music, NYU, USC, Brandeis and Cal State University Northridge; won 1st prize in the high school talent show and money prizes in community singing contests. My singers have sung the Star Spangle Banner at Staples Center for a Clipper's game and produced success

ful showcases in the LA area. My story starts a while back: As a singer/songwriter my experiences singing live from Bud Friedman's Improv to the Disneyland Hotel and in studios all across Los Angeles eventually took me to Europe where I landed in Brussels and recorded an album for Sony Records/Belgium which produced three radio hits in the 90's. I also recorded and/or wrote jingles for Coca Cola, Fanta, Schwepes, Fisher Price and more! Fluent in French, when I moved back to the states I taught at Lycee International de Los Angeles for 12 years where I developed a music program for their 4 campuses, teaching K through 12, including commendations from everyone from French President Sarkozy to Los Angeles Councilman Tom LeBonge. I've recorded 6 children's CD's and recently directed and arranged background vocals for renown French singer and actress Charlotte Gainsbourg. In my private practice I have prepared and developed singers for live performance, personal development and for the rigors of auditioning process. And we always have fun!!

*** Lesson Details ***Learn to play the voice! I have developed my own special brand of singing lessons using breathing and placement techniques to provide the tools you need to develop as a vocalist and help you make the choices of an artist. How do you want to tell your story? My lessons will help you build confidence and every lesson will bring you a new piece of understanding and practical know-how. You will work hard, play hard, build a repertoire, and make tangible improvements in every single lesson! Success breeds success. If you want to audition for The Voice or simply enjoy the applause at karaoke night, I can bring you closer to your goal. I can also include beginning piano which can only add to your skills including an understanding of music vocabulary and the basic mechanics of music theory.

*** Studio Equipment ***Music Room, and recording studio, piano, guitars, computer and cd, ipod docs. Parents are welcome to stay for lessons or run to close-by Starbucks, Costco or Home Depot!

*** Travel Equipment ***I use a piano to teach both voice and beginning piano.

*** Specialties ***I use solfege, breathing and placement techniques filtered through an emphasis on real world performance skills. Helping the student build confidence is probably one of the teachers' most important roles. Creating a safe environment is key to keeping the lesson fun, productive and challenging. Every single student should leave every single lesson with a tangible feeling of progress.

...

Reviews

Paula Kleiman K. June 16, 2015
Singing ·
In home Verified Student

We have been absolutely thrilled with the results that we've seen in our two boys' abilities since working with Toni for the past year and a half. They are both in their high school's show choir and we couldn't be happier with this year's accomplishments. Our freshman earned major solos in his group's competition set and has also earned a spot in next year's Advanced Show Choir group which mostly consists of seniors. As far as our senior son, Toni helped him with his confidence in his singing ability, and helped him secure a solo in his final show choir performance. He also joined a band with his friends and was more than thrilled to be selected as the front man.
We asked our boys if they wanted to take a break for the summer, they both said "No" and that they wanted to continue with Toni throughout their summer vacation.
Thank you Toni - you're simply the best!

preeti B. June 2, 2015
Singing ·
In studio Verified Student

Toni is a great teacher! She's great with kids, patient and works with songs that my daughter likes to keep her engaged and she's very methodical. My daughter loves her!

Michele A. January 4, 2015
Singing ·
In studio

Toni is the single most amazing teacher and person I have ever had the pleasure of coming across. In the months that I have been taking lessons, not only has my singing improved, but also my confidence. She made me realize that the voice is an instrument and is teaching me exactly how to use it. If you want to improve and learn all while having the pleasure of being with an amazing person, then Toni is perfect for you. She definitely is perfect for me and all her other students!

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Toni K.

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Toni K.

Canoga Park, CA 91304

(4)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

Michelle A.

These lessons are focused on re-awakening the student to their creative potential through authentic self-expression. Although centered around the voice, Michelle will use various techniques to help unlock any resistance or hesitation to expressing ones whole self more fully in the world. By first understanding and recognizing the voice as a vessel for creativity and authenticity, we can then cultivate habits and techniques, which allow the student to gain confidence, joy and inspiration through the expression of their authentic self. These lessons are ideal for those wishing to gain more confidence in their speaking voice, the individual looking to overcome any type of performance anxiety and/or for the student wishing to cultivate a speaking voice that more fully reflects and resonates the individual they desire to express themselves as. This can also be a wonderful opportunity for the seasoned performer to take their artistry and connection to their craft to the next level.

About Michelle

I believe that everyone can sing, it is just a matter of learning how to use your unique instrument. From a very young age I was sharing my love of the arts with others as a performer. I grew up with an immense appreciation for all forms of art and found music to be the ideal way to express myself. My extensive education and performance experience has allowed me to cultivate my skills and knowledge so that I can best support each student on their own unique journey of cultivating their authentic singing voice. As a teacher I feel so lucky to have the opportunity to support students both in my

studio and through online lessons, providing the positive and supportive guidance and experiences they need in order to cultivate their own musical gifts.

*** Lesson Details ***My intention for each student is to support him or her, to the best of my ability, in finding and cultivating their voice, as well as their musical and performance abilities. As a teacher, I keep a healthy balance between professionalism and making learning fun, inspiring and experiential. I design a specific curriculum for each student based on their specific goals and intentions regarding their voice so that each lesson focuses on them and their unique needs. It is extremely important to me that students of all ages have a positive experience of music in their lives and I provide fun and encouraging performance opportunities for those students who wish to participate. I have extensive experience working with individuals who may have fear or anxiety about singing, speaking or expressing themselves to others. I am able to assist these students as they move past their fear and hesitation and truly claim their voice. They learn to cultivate and appreciate their own ability to express themselves in the world with confidence and ease. My goal is to recognize and support each student's potential, helping to give them confidence, direction and motivation on their unique musical journey.

Reviews

Cindy F. July 29, 2015
Singing ·
Online Verified Student

If I had to pick all over again, I would still choose Michelle! I can't think of anything she could do to improve. She is smart, funny, bubbly, positive, and very flexible with schedules. She could teach any age and any range of ability without making the student feel humiliated. In fact, she is very good at building confidence and you can tell she ENJOYS teaching and singing. She is also very caring. I originally purchased the lessons for my daughter (20) who is interested in theater, but just for fun (and as a Christmas present), we did the first few lessons together. I am in charge of our church youth band, so I continued my lessons as I discovered there really is so much to learn. I have never been able to reach high notes, so I've learned how to breathe and even get well past my normal B-flat high note. I never knew there were so many places for sound to reverberate, so I guess you could say I am finding my voice. I am a reading specialist, so I recognize quality instruction. My daughter and I love her so much that my 22-year old son wanted to take lessons as well. He is a piano performance major at UNT and appreciates good teachers who are also good musicians. We all three highly recommend her. I would give her more stars if I could! The Take Lessons website is also very well organized and I haven't had a bit of trouble with it, despite the fact that I've had to rearrange my lessons quite often. Thanks for everything, Michelle!

Michelle R. July 27, 2015
Singing ·
Online Verified Student

My daughter who is 10 has been taking singing lessons with MIchelle for about 10 months now. My daughter loves her time with Michelle. Michelle has mastered the art of encouraging the student while giving areas of improvement. My daughter loves singing and Michelle gives her specific areas of improvement while instilling confidence. Michelle is timely on her lessons and consistent. I never have to worry whether she will show for our lesson and I can rest in the fact that my daughter leaves the lesson with confidence and direction in her singing.

Kimberly G. July 11, 2015
Singing ·
Online Verified Student

This was my first ever vocal/singing lesson. I've had a deep desire to learn how to sing for years. I finally made the decision to leap into a whole new, and unknown world of singing lessons. Michelle took away all my anxieties on the very first lesson! She is very warm and welcoming! Although I am very new to vocal/singing lessons, she certainly didn't make me feel like it was my first time! She was extremely informative, gave great tid-bits, explained things in a manner in which I could understand the technicalities easily, very encouraging, gives you kudo's for a great job, and over all just made it FUN! I could go on and on...you just have to see for yourself. If she made ME feel comfortable...someone with absolutely no prior lessons, no natural singing voice...she is definitely one to choose. She is extremely patient as well and her warm, friendly personality is infectious!

Michelle A.

Michelle A.

Samara K.

Become confident with your unique vocal expression. Learn the skills necessary to speak with power and clarity.

About Samara

Hi there!

I'm Samara, and my mission is to unlock your artistic potential, preparing you to be your best and GIVE your best in the audition room.

I trained formally at celebrated arts institutions all over the globe, earning both a Bachelors and Masters Degree in Fine Arts (Theatre and Acting) from New York University, Tisch School of the Arts, and The Harvard American Repertory Theatre. During my training I was fortunate to perform in residence internationally at The Trinity Theatre in Dublin, and the renowned Moscow Art Theatre.

I'm a proud member of SAG-AFTRA and The Actor's Equi

ty Association, having worked professionally in Miami, New York, LA, and even Moscow in award winning Off Broadway Theatre, Short Films, Voice Over, Stand-Up Comedy, Commercials, and a popular underground Webseries praised by Entertainment Weekly. I've also had the opportunity to sing at Carnegie Hall, televised sporting events, musicals, and rock shows.

I coach everyone from high-profile professionals to young artists at the beginning of their career. My overarching ambition is to open the channels that allow you to flow freely in life and art, encourage you to take meaningful, rewarding risks, and become the confident, accomplished performer you know you can be!

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Reviews

Zeke July 21, 2015
Audition Prep ·
In studio

Samara Kelly is not only an amazing teacher but also an amazing person.
She was my first acting coach and I can not imagine what my life would look like without her guidance.
Samara has a strong passion for what she does and shares that passion, along with her experience and wisdom, through her lessons.
She always finds ways to bring things out of me I didn't even know were possible, all while creating a safe and nurturing environment that allows and fosters growth and progress.
Samara Kelly is the main reason I was accepted into not one, but two intensive training programs in New York City. She encouraged and helped me get on my path to becoming the actor I want to be.
I wholeheartedly recommend taking sessions with Samara

Crystal Rose June 26, 2015
Acting ·
Online

Samara has really helped me break out of my shell. She is honest and thorough and really cares about her students success. I sometimes even refer to her as my therapist and my guru... She is that good!

Thank you Samara!

Savannah S. April 5, 2015
Acting ·
In studio

I worked with Samara on monologues for college auditions and for my showcase, we worked together for a little under (I think) three months. She's such a great teacher, definitely no complaints. I really loved working with her and she totally helped build my confidence when it came to performing in front of others—I'm (or was) ironically shy/weird about performing monologues and pieces in front of people and have been since I started doing theatre (10 years ago). Nonetheless, I got over that after Samara helped me with my acting and I don't get pre-performance anxiety/nerves anymore. I don't think I would've been able to pull off any of my monologues had it not been for her lessons, she actually helped me choose one of the audition monologues because I couldn't find a second one. In the whole monologue/character-building process, she took notes and asked me questions that really made me think about my character and their motives and actions and whatnot. She's also very encouraging and would commend me on anything I did well or improved on. Point is, Samara is a superb teacher and human!! I'd confidently recommend her classes to anyone who needs help with their acting. Five stars because she definitely was the best instructor ever!!

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Samara K.

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Samara K.

Los Angeles, CA 90046

(9)

starting at

$100
/ 60-min

Alexandra M.

About Alexandra

I have a BA in Humanities, with a specialty in Drama, and a MFA in Professional Writing, both from USC. I am a credentialed teacher currently working in Santa Monica and Beverly Hills. I have a passion for the English language and can help you sharpen and expand your skills, whether you're a beginner, English is your second language, or you're preparing for college entrance exams.

Professional actor. Worked in NYC, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Honolulu. Have taught private acting classes in LA. Can help with any kind of scene study or monologue, gain confidence in expressing yourse

lf.

I am smart and funny and very patient. I've tutored second graders and adults, taught acting classes in Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Honolulu, and have had my own writing work published and produced.

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Reviews

Howard July 18, 2015
English ·
In home

Alexandra is the "cat's pajamas." She started working with my daughter Molly as a tutor in English when Molly was preparing for her CASHEE. This was not easy as Molly has learning issues (dyslexia, ADHD). Although state rules would have exempted Molly, she wanted to pass the exam and graduate the same way as her classmates. But she had already come up short twice. After 2 months of working with Alexandra once a week, Molly passed the exam with points to spare. Since then, being gifted in so many ways, Alexandra has stepped in twice as a personal coach. She helped Molly go through want ads and prepare for interviews, with the result that Molly got her first job which she has now help for almost a year. She also gave Molly help setting up her account in LA Casting and in looking through and responding to auditions notices. So, while I checked "English" as the 'subject' of this review, given the option 'Other' I would have filled in: Life Coach, Improv, Acting, and Job search and Prep. Alexandra seems to do it all. Immensely talented. Thanks!

Wonderful teacher! I've had a rough time with my voice in many aspects of my life, including teaching yoga, and Alexandra helps me so much! She will actually get up and do yoga to ensure that I am communicating effectively, in a timely matter, and that my pronunciation is spot on. She has so many ideas and exercises and is very passionate about what she does and helping others!!

Affordable

Effective

Speaking Voice Lesson Reviews from Students

Students are raving about their Speaking Voice instructors on TakeLessons.
Check out some of these recent reviews.

Review by Chianna

"Only a couple lessons thus far and fabulous!! Looking forward to witnessing his gift and potential to help my duaghter shine."

Las Vegas, NV teacher:
Glenn W.

Review by Douglas

"Highly recommend

Stephanie is a very talented teacher. I made lots of progress in just my first few lessons in confidence and my voice. She has specific

techniques that you can use right away and gives homework to do each week. I like how she has lots of exercises in her repetoire and keeps on top of her e-mails and messages. Highly recommend."

...

Los Angeles, CA teacher:
Stephanie R.

Review by Linda

"In spite of only being able to have one lesson with Daniel due to intense graduate school studies, in one hour Daniel helped me to understand and learn ab

out proper breathing to support my voice in order to be a better public speaker. I hope to continue my studies with him in the future. If you want a gracious, kind, generous teacher with a most beautiful, melodious voice, study with Daniel Collins!Thank you, Daniel.Linda S"

...

New York, NY teacher:
Dr. Daniel C.

Review by Julia

"LeAnna is a very thoughtful and mindful instructor. The lessons with LeAnna are organized and structured in a way that strategically presents the informat

ion to the student. I feel that LeAnna brings herself and her experience into all the lessons she teaches and is just wonderful!"

...

Los Angeles, CA teacher:
LeAnna S.

Review by Peter

"Learned a lot

Teresa is a teriffic teacher and takes a lot of pride in her work. She took her time with me and introduced me to a new way of delivery and

breathing that helped with my speed and articulation. Teresa introduced new items to each lesson that made it a constant learning experience. Teresa is not only patient, but pleasant and I will be continuing my lessons with her this summer for my "tune up"."

...

Rochester, NY teacher:
Teresa R.

Review by Daniel

"Danielle is the most professional instructor I have worked with in a long time. Going way beyond musical instruction, of which she is a master. She also l

istened carefully to my needs and custom develops her approach so I could meet my goal. I am an aspiring public speaker and minister in training and she helped me prepare for my Inaugural Sermon. We did warm ups, opened up my vocal range, determined what my rage was. Improved my breathing techniques and gave me plenty to do on my own, not holding back on what it will take to be successful. She even helped me edit my sermons to meet my time requirements once I had gotten hold of her techniques. Danielle maximizes your time to your advantage and is an Awesome Instructor that I would highly recommend!"

...

New York, NY teacher:
Danielle L.

Review by Tony

"Great teacher with passion and love

Grace ParkShe's not a ordinary music teacher.She will teach you music and life.She will be your teacher, counselor

, and your friend.From her I learned how to tell my stories with music.You will never regret having her in part of your life."

...

Atlanta, GA teacher:
Grace P.

Review by James

"I used to be terrified of crowds and speaking on front of large groups. I now have more self-confidence and poise when I give presentations after working

with Margo. I am grateful to have finally overcome this fear."

...

Chicago, IL teacher:
Margo L.

Review by Morgan

"Wonderful teacher! I've had a rough time with my voice in many aspects of my life, including teaching yoga, and Alexandra helps me so much! She will actua

lly get up and do yoga to ensure that I am communicating effectively, in a timely matter, and that my pronunciation is spot on. She has so many ideas and exercises and is very passionate about what she does and helping others!!"